Wilson unveils new Blade for 2013

CHICAGO — Building upon the success of one of its most popular rackets among Next Gen tour players, Wilson Racquet Sports (wilson.com) is unveiling the next evolution of the Blade™ racket series for 2013, engineered for hard-hitting players that want to maximize control, spin and feel. The new rackets take control to the next level and feature Wilson’s proprietary Amplifeel™ handle technology for optimal feel, as well as an enhanced modulus graphite construction for added control. A new sleek black and silver cosmetic, inspired by tour players, rounds out the revamped product family.

“I had a great time testing the Blade 98,” said Milos Raonic. “The increased level of feel and control gives me exactly what I am looking for in 2013. It looks and feels great for my game.” The Blade 98™ is now available in an additional 16x19 (318g) spin-enhancing string pattern.

Milos Raonic leads the charge of Blade 98 players, and newest Wilson team member, Gael Monfils, switched to Wilson to play with the new racket. Wilson Next Gen players Laura Robson, David Goffin and Elina Svitolina are already adding wins to their career records.

Included in the group are the Blade 93™, Blade 98 and Blade 104™. Used by 75 percent of Wilson’s Next Gen team, the rackets will be available at retail December 1.

“We have seen very strong results from our Next Gen players this year with the Blade,” said Renaud Vallon, global tour director for Wilson. “Laura Robson reached a career high and won Olympic silver; Elina Svitolina won her first WTA Tour title; and Filip Peliwo and Genie Bouchard dominated the ITF Juniors. These players are the future of our sport and we look forward to following their successes in 2013 with the new Blade series of rackets.”